Even as the popular, corporate-driven discourse around AI hypes this brave new technology, less visible but important discussions are taking place on the potential perils of AI, related to the environment, copyright infringement, effects on student learning, and more. This talk by the SPACE coordinators will share these behind-the-scenes discussions and explore where a middle ground might be found between a utopic and dystopic AI future. Through the presentation of real-world examples and an open-ended exploration of the impacts AI is having and may have on both our individual lives and broader society, students will be encouraged to engage in critical reflection around AI and to develop their own intentional strategies for using it, or not, in their education and personal lives.
This talk is part of Social Science Week 2025.
Image: detail of poster design by Alexa Giroux, Illustration student, Dawson College.
Since 2004 Joel Trudeau has taught in the Physics Department at Dawson College. He is a founder of SPACE, an interdisciplinary student enrichment para-academic project and project co-lead of the DawsonAI Artificial Intelligence initiative. His work in education lies in the intersection of sciences, arts and technology, fostering an integrative approach to teaching and learning. Joel has led and collaborated on numerous research projects, primarily focusing on design-based, active, and experiential learning. He is committed to helping students develop vital skills to thrive in the AI era.
Andrew Katz grew up in Montreal. After graduating from McGill medical school, he went on to complete his Masters in English and Creative Writing at Concordia, and since 2006 he has been teaching English and Creative Writing at Dawson College, where in 2013 he won the Director General’s Award for teaching Excellence. He has been involved as a SPACE coordinator and fellow since 2008, and he uses his background in both the sciences and the arts to help students explore cross-disciplinary connections. He is also the author of five picture books, including an upcoming ecological fable titled Jackie’s Drawing (May 2025).
Comments
shaneronan
March 16, 2026This collection of sports games is awesome! It really captures the thrill of real-life matches while keeping everything light, simple, and super entertaining.
marryhile
March 18, 2026Step into a volatile babysitting simulator where physical interactions are key to survival. the baby in yellow challenges players with repetitive tasks but dramatically altered through supernatural elements.
multiplellama
April 10, 2026This sounds like a really important talk, especially for students navigating the rapidly changing landscape of AI. Thinking about “intentional strategies” for using AI resonates with me. It’s like deciding how to approach other technologies that offer both benefits and potential pitfalls. Remember when Flash was all the rage, then died out when HTML5 allowed browser game to be more accessible. My nephews enjoy playing Snow Rider 3D after school, which is a good way for them to relax.
pizzaedition
May 21, 2026Ragdoll Archers: It’s an archery game with bow-and-arrow stickmen powered by ragdoll physics, so every hit feels chaotic and funny. You earn skulls by killing enemies and spend them to upgrade stats like health, stamina, and damage, plus unlock an increasing range of arrow types (electric, poison, balloon, axe, etc.). It also supports two-player play—either PvP against a friend or co-op to fight waves of enemies together—so it works for quick party sessions as well as solo runs.
https://pizzaedition.io/games/ragdoll-archers/
Marinette Thomas
May 27, 2026This timely talk highlights the necessity of an intentional middle ground with AI. At Astroma, we face this exact tension, balancing high-tech computing with human nuance. While algorithms process complex astronomical data instantly, they lack the essential empathy and deep critical reflection required to truly interpret life transitions.
The real harmony lies in using digital tools to support, rather than replace, human wisdom. Pairing advanced data platforms with guidance from the best astrologer online demonstrates how technology can serve as a meaningful framework for self-reflection. Kudos to the SPACE coordinators for inspiring students to navigate this digital era mindfully.
Visit: https://astroma.co
Charles Edward
June 4, 2026This talk is really insightful for students trying to understand the balance between AI promise and risk, and even in the world of hot games it reminds us to think more critically about how we use technology in everyday life.
mohaselena
June 4, 2026A balanced discussion on AI is exactly what students need right now. clicker game
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